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Some people may underestimate the sport of cheerleading and may not always acknowledge it as an “athletic activity,” but Varsity Cheerleader Brooke Manuel can definitely vouch that it is a sport that requires lots of athleticism and skill.

“People don’t realize just how difficult some of the skills stunts and tumbling are,” Manuel said. “It takes many hours of practice to learn dances, cheers, and the correct timing to be in sync as a group. Also, there is high risk of serious injuries in cheerleading.”

Manuel has been a cheerleader for seven years, six of which she cheered for the school and one year in competitive cheer. She spends about seven to eight hours a week practicing in class and after school practice, and has been putting in extra effort since it’s her final year of high school.

“This year has been great,” Manuel said. “I cheer with most of my really close friends which makes it even more fun and they are all very talented. We all get along and have made many memories together.”

Manuel said she has had many great memories, including several from cheer camp and Friday night games along with practices, and she hopes to be remembered as a hard worker with a positive influence and friendly personality. As of right now, she is making the most of her high school cheer career while planning for her future – a future that most likely will involve cheer in some way.

“I am looking at several colleges and plan on continuing my cheerleading career wherever I go,” Manuel said.